Questions About Periodontics and Gum Disease

Below is a list of some of the questions we get asked most frequently from our patients. If you have a question that isn't answered below, feel free to give our Dallas, TX periodontic practice a call and we'll be happy to assist you.

Periodontal disease, (also known as "periodontal infection”,
"gum disease”, pyrorrhea”) is an ongoing infection in the gums around the
teeth.The cause of periodontal disease
is infectious bacteria that gets deep into the gums.

This infection starts destroying the bone that supports the
teeth.If left untreated, it can lead
to tooth loss.For more information,
please see the section entitled Periodontal Disease.

Your general dentist is trained to detect and treat eary
stages of periodontal disease.A
periodontist is a dentist with advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment
of periodontal disease.They also
perform other periodontal treatments such as crown lengthening and dental
implants (see procedures page). Periodontics is one of eight specialists
recognized by the American Dental Association.

As a child, did you ever get a bad scrape that became red
and swollen?That was caused by a
bacteria that got under your skin and started an infection.It may have lasted for days or weeks.Finally, your immune system conquered the bad
bacteria and the infection healed.

With an ONGOING infection, your immune system never wins the
battle and the infection grows.Periodontal disease is an ongoing infection in the pockets around your
teeth.Your immune system is losing the
battle and, without treatment it will get worse.

People with periodontal disease have low resistance to
periodontal bacteria.This is causes a
continuing gum infection which grows in "bursts” of activity.Each time it grows, more support for your
teeth is lost.Some factors that can
cause a "burst” of activity are:

In many instances, a dental implant can provide unequaled
long-term natural and esthetic results.Since the implant crown is not soldered to adjust teeth, a more natural
tooth shape can be achieved.This also
make dental hygiene, especially flossing much easier.

A dental implant functions very much like a normal
tooth.You will again be able to all of
the foods you like without worrying about the condition of your smile.

A final critical benefit of dental implant is that it helps stimulate and maintain
the normal bone and soft tissues around the implant.This ensures you a beautiful smile that will
stay beautiful for many years to come.

Periodontists have advanced training in the treatment of
periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants.

Patients with periodontal infection show weakened resistance
to periodontal bacteria.This causes a
continuing gum infection that can grow in bursts of activity.Some factors that cause a dramatic increase
in the severity of your periodontal disease are:

·Poor oral hygiene

·Plaque

·Smoking

·Genetic factors

·Stress

·Diet

·Age

·Illness

Two other important factors are:

·Lack of regular dental checkups

·Lack of regular dental cleanings

When your infection has a "burst” or growth, or when there
are signs that this is my occur, your dentist may recommend periodontal treatment.

One of the primary concerns is that you remain comfortable
during treatment.We offer an extensive
array of the latest techniques to minimize discomfort.For more information on these techniques, see
the procedures section.

Afterword, many of our patients say they are amazed at how
little discomfort the experienced.

On your first visit to our office you will receive a periodontal
examination.You should experience little
to no discomfort during this examination.If necessary, x-rays will be taken to further evaluate any loss of bone
around your teeth.

Afterword, our findings and your options for treatment will
be thoroughly explained.The doctor will
answer any questions you may have.

Our goal is that you leave with a complete understanding of
your condition and the treatment needed to restore you to optimum oral health

Everyone deserves to keep their natural teeth for a
lifetime.While periodontal treatment is
not as costly as replacing natural teeth do to tooth loss, its costs can vary
greatly depending upon your needs.

If you have dental insurance, this may provide full or
partial coverage.Our office will
contact your insurance company to learn what they will cover.

We feel that finances should never be an obstacle to
treatment.For your convenience, we
offer several payment options.We also
have payment plans to suit your individual needs.Our insurance coordinator will be happy to
answer any of your financial or insurance questions.

Your general dentist knows your entire dental history, the
condition of your teeth and your future dental needs.He or she is in charge of your overall dental
care. We work closely with your general
dentist to ensure you will receive the best possible dental care.

In many cases your general dentist may preform preliminary
periodontal treatment and a portion of your periodontal maintenance
afterword.

Periodontal disease can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene.
This includes brushing, flossing, and visiting you dentist regularly.
Also make sure to eat a healthy diet to get the required vitamins and
minerals necessary for your teeth.